WWII Veteran Honored With Overdue Medals

By Associated Press&nbsp|&nbsp

Posted: Sat 10:08 PM, Dec 08, 2012

HARRISON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (AP) -- A 92-year-old World War II veteran from Algonac who once hitched a ride on a Tiger tank courtesy of Germany's legendary Panzer commander Gen. Erwin Rommel has received overdue honors for his military service.

William Pollauf was honored Friday by U.S. Rep. Candice Miller, R-Harrison Township.

A bureaucratic mix-up had prevented Pollauf from receiving medals he earned in World War II, including one for the 27 months he was a German prisoner of war. He also received the World War II Victory medal, Eastern/African/Middle Eastern campaign medal, Prisoner of War medal and a World War II honorable service lapel button.

Miller said she was "delighted to present the medals, long overdue" to Pollauf.

The Detroit News says Pollauf returned to Michigan after the war and worked as a carpenter.

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